Over the top ... but in a good cause

When Gwyneth Paltrow blubbered and howled her way through her Best Actress Oscar acceptance speech three years ago she was widely criticised.

Her performance was voted most embarrassing moment by movie buffs in a combined US television and internet survey. She was the butt of endless jokes.

Halle Berry's open-mouthed gaping and uncontrolled wailing at the start of her own long-winded acceptance speech yesterday is unlikely to attract the same criticism. Luckily for her, it was the first best-actress statuette ever presented to a black performer, won for her role in the racially charged film Monster's Ball.

When she finally got control of herself she launched into a long thank-you speech dedicating her award to all the African-American women who had struggled before her to make their way in Hollywood.

"And it's for every nameless, faceless woman of colour that now has a chance because this door, tonight, has been opened. I am so honoured, and I thank the Academy for choosing me to be the vessel for which this blessing might flow."

Three minutes later, when it became obvious the ceremony producers were encouraging her to wind the speech up, she exploded: "It's been 74 years [referring to the number of years the Oscars have been running]. I've got to take this time."

Oscar nominees were sent packs from the Academy before the big night, complete with a 45-second egg-timer and the instruction to use it to practise the timing of any acceptance speech.

But even if home viewers were cringing and willing Berry to finish, for those at the event it was an appropriate speech.

Herald entertainment editor Russell Baillie said many in the audience were moved to tears.

"Sitting here listening and seeing it all, her speech fitted in as part of the drama of the night," he said.

Oscar nominees and winners (full list)

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